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COURSE SYLLABUS CJ 530.02W - Seminar in Criminology
Summer I, July 1-Aug 4, 2013 (AP-CRIM)
Instructor: Vivian J. Dorsett, Ph.D. Office Location: Online
Office Phone: 903.886.5332
University Email Address: [email protected]
COURSE INFORMATION
Materials – Textbooks, Readings, Supplementary Readings:
Textbook(s) Required:
Ronald L. Akers & Christine S. Sellers, 6th edition, 2012. Criminological Theories:
Introduction, Evaluation, and Application. Oxford University Press.
Additional Readings:
Course Description:
This course examines crime and delinquency in America from several theoretical perspectives.
This course provides an in-depth investigation into the major criminological theories that explain
the causation, occurrence and development of criminal behavior. A wide spectrum of
criminological theories are introduced and researched during this class.
Course Design:
This course is completely online, so a student ought to be determined to make use of the
computer (having a working personal computer) and commit the appropriate time to completing
the assignments. In this class we will digest a large amount of reading material that focuses on
crime (committed by a juvenile or adult), information that addresses the reasons for such
behavior whether in books or professional journal research articles, and develop skills that allow
us to analyze, discuss and critique the information we digest. It is the intention of the professor
through this course to broaden the students’ knowledge pool of information pertaining to the
explanations of criminal behavior. The design of the course is not only to expose students to
more and diverse information but also to cultivate individual skills that will allow a student to
address/write on a number of ideas motivated or grounded in the reading of an assortment of
literature. We will accomplish the addressing and writing through discussions, through limited
summations, homework assignments, limited research papers and in the completion of an essay
exam.
Student Learning Outcomes (Core Competencies):
1. Student will be able to demonstrate critical thinking in reference to criminological
theories introduced in the class and employ that skill to other criminological theories not
introduced in this class
2. Student will be able to properly employ either the American Psychological Association
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(APA) or American Sociological Association (ASA) citation format
3. Student will display familiarity with criminological theories by being able to read and
explain major ideas presented in professional research articles dealing with
criminological theories
Student Learning Outcomes (Course Particular):
1. Student will be able to identify and summarize the theories or causalities of criminal
behavior covered in this class
2. Student will be able to critique what he/she sees as the weaknesses and limitations of
theories of criminal causation
3. Student will be able to summarize and analyze the contributions of the literature dealing
with criminological theories
It will be essential that a student is able to understand, achieve and perform all of the core
competencies and course particulars. Successfully achieving these outcomes will be evident
in the student's overall grade result.
The emphasis on critical thinking is a core trait throughout this course and the entire Applied
Criminology program. The qualities of a critical thinker are:
Posses the ability to gather credible sources while also cultivating the skill to evaluate the
information gathered
An independent thinker and one who is willing to consider all points of view
One who gathers an array of viewpoints, consider an argument from many angles and
realizes there may not be a firm right or wrong, good or bad, or a simple dichotomy
The emphases on course particular outcomes exist to serve as a measuring devise to ascertain
whether the student has accomplished the goals of the class. It is essential that a student
completing this class is capable of demonstrating a certain degree of gained knowledge.
Possessing the skills to demonstrate that a student understands the introduced criminological
theories; that a student has learned how to critique and inquire about the focus of criminological
theories; and can digest the professional literature that addresses criminological theories, is a
major point of accomplishment established for the students enrolled in this class.
All class assignments are due based on Central Standard Time (CST). All assignment will be
due on or by the designated date at 11:59pm (CST).
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Instructional / Methods / Activities Assessments
(1) Initial Presentation (10 pts., extra credit)
Every student must introduce him- or herself by the second day (no later than
11:59pm, July 2, 2013) of class during Week One. This information will be entered as
a threaded discussion. Each student should follow the example provided in eCollege at
the site of the assignment in Week One. Each student’s presentation should cover the
following information:
Name
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Occupation/career and length of time
How this course is expected to help or aid your career, separate from the entire
degree
Indicate whether you have had a course in criminological theory (if so describe in
brief terms what you recall from that class)
Describe how you expect this degree to enhance your career
(2) Comment (Student Communication) (15 pts.)
In an online class it is not easy or effortless for students to communicate with each other.
In fact, students may have to go out of their way to communicate with one another.
Usually the communication is between the student and professor. I want to encourage
student-to-student communication. Therefore, a student will be able to earn up to 15
points during the entire course when he/she participates in Student Communication.
Each week a student should post a comment pertaining to some ideas associated with the
chapter being read, discussed, and studied for that specific week by posting a comment
under the heading of Comment. It will be necessary for the student to post the relevant
comment between Sunday and Thursday, no later than 11:59pm of that Thursday if
he/she expects to earn any points for the posting during that week.
Comments should be relevant and demonstrate that the student is reading or has read the
chapter and appear to be familiar with the information in that specific chapter on which
he/she is commenting. Comments need not be of any particular length or number of
words. Comments should be thought provoking. Comments could be a question of a
thought or idea presented in the chapter, a challenge of ideas as presented by the author
or a simple observation about the theory or information being presented in the chapter for
that week.
(3) Discussion (5 @ 20 pts. each, 100 pts.) By performing this assignment the student will accomplish Student Learning Outcomes # 1 & 3 of
the Core competencies, and Student Learning Outcomes # 3 & 4 of the Course particular.
Each student is expected to participate in the Chapter discussion by responding to idea(s)
presented by the professor. One discussion, per week is required. The professor will post
at least two statements or ideas reflecting some aspect of the chapter being studied for
that week. Discussions must be posted by Saturday of each week by 11:59pm. Students
may post earlier than the absolute due date if desired, but no later than the identified dates
below. Where there are two chapters per week the student must only discuss one
statement or idea of either chapter (do not discuss on both chapters). Each Chapter
Discussion will be worth 20 points each. Late discussions will not be read or graded.
Chapter Discussions must be posted by 11:59pm on the following dates:
o (Week #1, July 6) Chapter 1, Introduction to Criminological Theory
o (Week #2, July 13) Chapter 5 Social Learning Theory, & Chapter 6 Social
Bonding and Control Theories
o (Week #3, July 20) Chapter 8 Social Disorganization Theory: Social
Structure, Communities, and Crime, & Chapter 9 Anomie and Strain
Theories
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o (Week #4, July 27) Chapter 2 Deterrence and Rational Choice Theories, &
Chapter 7 Labeling and Reintegrative Shaming Theory
o (Week #5, Aug 3) Chapter 14 Integrating Criminological Theories
Points to consider for maximum grade achievement:
o Posted discussions should be no less than 250 words.
o Student must demonstrate he/she has read the chapter by employing
criminological concepts and specifics from the chapter.
o In the discussion student must demonstrate an understanding of the
information in the chapter by addressing it in detail fashion. A superficial
discussion will not receive the maximum grade earnable.
o The discussion must be of graduate quality and contain detail information
or analysis linking chapter material to critical appraisal of theories being
presented.
o If sources are used then proper citations should be employed. If a source
is used then a bibliography should also be provided.
(4) Research Article Exercise (3 @ 20 pts. each, 60 pts) By performing this assignment the student will accomplish Student Learning Outcome # 3 of the
Core competencies, and Student Learning Outcomes # 1- 4 of the Course particular.
The professor will assign three research articles to be read, and a written exercise will be
performed, spaced out over the five weeks of the course. Actually, the research articles
will be assigned during the middle three weeks of the course. These three research
articles will be sent to the students all at one time (at the beginning of the session) as PDF
files. These research articles will also be attached to this course website link at document
sharing. Students are encouraged to save or print a copy of the research articles until
needed. All students are encouraged to give themselves time to read the assigned
research articles.
This assignment will equal to sixty points. The points will be achieved in this manner.
For each research article assigned by the professor there are two questions constructed
and already posted on the second, third and fourth weeks. Students will select ONE of
the questions/statements and answer or reply to it (writing a reply) which will be placed
in the appropriate dropbox by Friday, 11:59pm of that same week. The dropbox (name
of assignment) will be identified as Research Article 1, 2, 3, consecutively. Late posting
will not be accepted. Writing and posting a reply to the question/statement will earn the
student a maximum of twenty (20) points each.
Date of Assigned Research Article Research Question due in dropbox
Week #2 Friday by 11:59pm
Week #3 Friday by 11:59pm
Week #4 Friday by 11:59pm
Points to consider for maximum grade achievement:
o Clarity of student’s reply to task
o Evidence student’s answer reflects having read the article
o Level of understanding of article as presented in reply written by student
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(5) Chapter Outline of Designated Chapter (45 pts.) By performing this assignment the student will accomplish Student Learning Outcome # 3of the
Core competencies, and Student Learning Outcomes # 1- 4 of the Course particular.
Each student must develop an outline of ONE of the following chapters. These will be
chapters not covered by the professor either in lecture notes, power point or any fashion.
Those chapters which a student may develop an outline of are:
Chapters 3 - Biological and Biosocial Theories
Chapter 4 - Psychological Theories
Chapter 10 - Conflict Theory
Chapter 11 - Marxist Theories
Chapter 12 – Radical and Critical Theories
Chapter 13 - Feminist Theories
Please select only ONE chapter of which to develop an outline. The purpose of this
exercise is to expose the student to the information within the chapter, and to indirectly
require the student to become familiar with the theories within that chapter he/she
selected to outline. The outline should be a sentence outline, not a topic outline. Only
highpoints, important points, or points that provide the most understanding of the
theory(ies) in the selected chapter should be placed in the outline.
The Chapter Outline will be due Week #3, July 20 by 11:59pm. Please place in
appropriate dropbox titled Chapter Outline.
Example of Outline:
I.
A.
1.
a.
i.
ii.
2.
3.
B.
1.
2.
II.
(6) Research Paper (50 pts.) By performing this assignment the student will accomplish Student Learning Outcome # 2, and
Student Learning Outcomes # 1- 4 of the Course particular.
Each student must type a research paper with a minimum page count of seven pages - not
including the title page and bibliography. The paper will consist of the following:
1. title page
2. body
3. bibliography
The title page must include: the student's name, a title of the paper, the course title and
date. The title page is not to be numbered, nor does it count towards enumerating the
other pages.
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The body of the paper should be about seven pages, in font size 12, Times New Roman,
double-spaced with one inch margins all around. There should be NO running headline
placed on each page. The presentation, organization and quality of the paper, taking in
consideration grammar and mechanics will impact the grade received. Refer to the
“maximum grade achievement” (Attachment A) in terms of how to achieve the maximum
points available.
The bibliography should contain at least five resources. These resources should be peer-
reviewed professional research articles, and scholarly books. I discourage the use of
"website" writings. Journal articles (peer-reviewed professional research articles) that
appear in print and are later reproduced full-text on the Internet do NOT count as a
website; by "website" it is material written for an internet site, not merely reproduced
there. If there is a dilemma about a source please check with the professor.
The research paper should focus on some aspect of a criminological theory, an area of
crime, criminal data, or any area that the class has addressed or will address. Students are
encouraged to employ their imagination in developing the paper. Students are
encouraged to develop a topic that interests them, not to simply write a paper just to
satisfy achieving a grade. Here is where critical thinking can be employed.
The research paper will be due by Monday of Week #5, July 29, by 11:59pm. The
research paper should be placed in the appropriate dropbox.
For maximum points achievement: See Attachment A, page 15.
(7) Student Selected Research Article (selected by student) Summary (30pts.) By performing this assignment the student will accomplish Student Learning Outcome # 2, and
Student Learning Outcomes # 1- 4 of the Course particular.
Students are provided a format which must be used to summarize a research article
selected by each individual student. The format for this assignment is attached to this
class syllabus as Attachment B. See page 17. This research article must pertain to one of
the criminological theories studied in this class. The summary is due on Wednesday, July
23rd of Week #4, identified below by 11:59pm, and must be placed in the appropriate
dropbox marked “Research Article Student Selected.”
Research Article (selected by student) Summary due by Wednesday, Week #4, by
11:59pm.
Points to consider for maximum grade achievement:
o Format of summary followed as required o Pertinent details of article present/presented o Clarity exist in student’s writing
(8) Essay Test (100 pts.) By performing this assignment the student will accomplish Student Learning Outcome # 1, and
Student Learning Outcomes # 1- 2 of the Course particular.
Students will sign into the course during Week Five and take the essay exam. This test
must be completed and place in the appropriate dropbox by
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Friday, Aug 2, at 11:59pm. Late work will not be accepted. This exam will also cover
the class material presented to the student or read by the student during these five weeks.
The importance of this test is that students will be able to write their thoughts and
demonstrate that they are able to apply and draw inference from what they have studied
in this course. This essay exam will cover the same chapters as mentioned for the
objective test, Chapters 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, & 14.
(9) Objective Test (100 pts.) By performing this assignment the student will accomplish Student Learning Outcome # 1, and
Student Learning Outcomes # 1- 2 of the Course particular.
Students will sign into the course during Week Five and take the objective test over the
entire course material that has been covered during the class. Students will be
responsible for the following chapters on this objective test:
Chapter 1, Introduction to Criminological Theory
Chapter 2, Deterrence and Rational Choice Theories
Chapter 5, Social Learning Theory
Chapter 6, Social Bonding and Control Theories
Chapter 7, Labeling and Reintegrative Shaming Theory
Chapter 8, Social Disorganization Theory: Social Structure, Communities,
and Crime
Chapter 9, Anomie and Strain Theories
Chapter 14, Integrating Criminological Theories
The student will have two hours to complete the objective test which will consist of one
hundred multiple choice questions. The test must be completed by 11:59pm on
Saturday Aug 3, of Week #5. The test will close at 11:59pm and students will not be able
to enter the test after that time. This test will be more application and inference rather
than simple recall type questions.
Grading Information
Course Possible Points:
1 Initial presentation (extra credit) = 10pts
5 Chapter Discussions @ 20pts each = 100ps
3 Research article exercises @ 20pts each = 60pts
1 Chapter Outline for designated chapter = 45pts
1 Research Paper = 50pts
1 Research article summary = 30pts
1 Objective Exam = 100pts
1 Essay Exam = 100pts
5 Student Comments @ 3pts each = 15pts
Total 510pts
Grading Scale:
A = 500 - 450 pts
B = 449 - 400 pts
C = 399 - 350 pts
D = 349 - 300 pts
F = 299 and below
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TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
1. You will need regular access to a computer with a broadband Internet connection. The
minimum computer requirements are:
Any current Flash-compliant browser (eg. Internet Explorer 7 or Firefox 3.0)
512 MB of RAM, 1 GB or more preferred
Broadband connection required – courses are heavily video intensive
Video display capable of high-color 16-bit display – 1024 x 768 or higher
resolution
A sound card and speakers or headphones
Current anti-virus software ought be installed and kept up to date
Some classes may have specific class requirements for additional software. These
requirements will be listed on the course offerings page. Most home computers purchased
within the last 3-4 years meet or surpass these requirements.
2. At a minimum, you must have Microsoft Office 2003, XP, 2007 or OpenOffice. Microsoft
Office is the standard office productivity software utilized by faculty, students, and staff.
Microsoft Word is the standard word processing software, Microsoft Excel is the
standard spreadsheet software, and Microsoft PowerPoint is the standard presentation
software. Copying and pasting, along with attaching/uploading documents for assignment
submission, will also be required. If you do not have Microsoft Office, you can check with
the bookstore to see if they have any student copies.
ACCESS AND NAVIGATION
This course will be facilitated using eCollege, the Learning Management System. To log in to
eCollege/the course start out with the home page (university web site – www.tamuc.edu) or with
https://leo.tamuc.edu.
First time users of eCollege students are encouraged to go through the tutorial program identified
as eCollege on the myLeo main page.
COMMUNICATION AND SUPPORT
eCollege Student Technical Support: It is reassuring to know that technical support is available to make your online learning
experience convenient. All you have to do is call or email and a knowledgeable representative
will help you solve your technical issues.
myLeo Support:
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Your myLeo email address is required to send and receive all student correspondence. Please
email [email protected] or call us at 903-468-6000 with any questions about setting up your
myLeo email account. You may also access information at https://leo.tamuc.edu.
Course Technical Support:
Student Support Services:
eCollege Technical Concerns: Please contact the eCollege HelpDesk, available 24 hours a day,
seven days a week. by sending an email directly to [email protected]. You may also
reach the HelpDesk by calling (toll-free) 1-866-656-5511 or 720-931-3847 (direct), or through
the Online Chat by clicking on the "Tech Support" tab within your eCollege course.
Course Concerns: If you have questions pertaining to the content of this course (e.g., questions
about an exam, about course due dates, etc.), please contact your instructor via email, through the
"Virtual Office," or during office hours.
Other Questions/Concerns: Contact the appropriate TAMU-C department relating to your
questions/concern. If you are unable to reach the appropriate department with questions
regarding your course enrollment, billing, advising, or financial aid, please call 903-886-5511
between the hours of 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Internet Access:
An Internet connection is necessary to participate in discussions and assignments, access
readings, transfer course work, and receive feedback from your professor. View the
requirements as outlined in Technology Requirements above for more information.
Interaction with Instructor Statement:
You should make it a habit to check for emails using your University Email address available
through MyLeo. If it becomes necessary to communicate with you either as a class or
individually, I will use your University Email address. You may likewise contact me through my
email. I will admit that I will not be on my computer twenty-four hours a day or seven days a
week. I will reply to your email or communication within a reasonable time.
I will particularly be close to my computer and telephone during what I have posted as my Office
Hours – 10:00am – 11:00am Monday – Thursday.
COURSE AND UNIVERSITY PROCEDURES/POLICIES
Course Specific Procedures: Academic Honesty
Students who violate University rules on scholastic dishonesty are subject to disciplinary
penalties, including (but not limited to) receiving a failing grade on the assignment, the
possibility of failure in the course and dismissal from the University. Since dishonesty harms
the individual, all students, and the integrity of the University, policies on scholastic dishonesty
will be strictly enforced. In ALL instances, incidents of academic dishonesty will be reported to
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the Department Head. Please be aware that academic dishonesty includes (but is not limited to)
cheating, plagiarism, and collusion.
Cheating is defined as:
• Copying another's test of assignment
• Communication with another during an exam or assignment (i.e. written, oral or otherwise)
• Giving or seeking aid from another when not permitted by the instructor
• Possessing or using unauthorized materials during the test
• Buying, using, stealing, transporting, or soliciting a test, draft of a test, or answer key
Plagiarism is defined as:
• Using someone else's work in your assignment without appropriate acknowledgement
• Making slight variations in the language and then failing to give credit to the source
Collusion is defined as:
• Collaborating with another, without authorization, when preparing an assignment
If you have any questions regarding academic dishonesty, ask. Otherwise, I will assume
that you have full knowledge of the academic dishonesty policy and agree to the
conditions as set forth in this syllabus.
Students should also reference the following link for more detailed information.
http://web.tamuc.edu/academics/colleges/artsSciences/departments/sociologyCriminalJustice/frequentlyA
skedQuestions/academicHonesty/default.aspx
Policy for Reporting Problems with eCollege
Students who encounter eCollege‐based problems with submitting assignments/exams, etc., are required
to do the following: contact the eCollege HelpDesk, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. by
sending an email directly to [email protected]. You may also reach the HelpDesk by calling
(toll-free) 1-866-656-5511 or 720-931-3847 (direct), or through the Online Chat by clicking on the "Tech
Support" tab within your eCollege course.
Your call will be logged. In addition to this process you should send me an email describing your
problem. Once I have confirmed your call, I will contact you regarding the issue (depending on the date
and time of issue it may not be an immediate return or action on your message).
Attendance Policy
While this is an online course, students are expected to actively participate by meeting all deadlines.
Student participation/activity will be monitored by the professor. Students should plan to dedicate
approximately 15‐20 hours/week of time to this course.
APA or ASA Citation Format Policy
It is very important that you learn how to cite properly. In some ways, citations are more
important than the actual text of your paper/assignment. Therefore, you should take this task
seriously and devote some time to understanding how to cite properly. If you take the time to
understand this process up front, it will save you a significant amount of time in the long run
(not to mention significant deductions in points).
In the social and behavioral sciences (including Criminal Justice), we use APA (American
Psychological Association), and ASA (American Sociological Association) formats. As a rule of thumb,
one cites whenever they are paraphrasing other people’s words or when they quote other’s words directly.
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You may learn to cite from a variety of different sources including the APA Tutorial or ASA website.
The sources listed may be helpful:
www.apastyle.org http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/02/ www.library.cornell.edu/resrch/citmanage/apa http://www.asanet.org/cs/root/topnav/sociology_depts/quick_style_guide
I have to admit that I am not a fan of electronic citation. I prefer original books, and journal articles as
my sources. Therefore, I caution students to make sure if they employ electronic citation that it be
properly done. There are a number of sources available for guidance, however, I have placed as a
document in document sharing a copy of several pages that address electronic sources.
It is the student’s responsibility to understand how to cite properly. If you have questions, feel free to ask.
Late Work
This may be an ideal time to remind the student that since this course is internet based (online), and since
the student will have limited contact with the professor, I encourage each of you to take your time, class
work and the deadlines or due dates very seriously.
If an assignment is missed or late the professor reserves the right not to accept the assignment. No
excuses will be acceptable. Students are encouraged to frequently review the syllabus and remain
aware of the deadlines for all assignments.
I want to reiterate that personal computer/access problems will not be an acceptable excuse for
failing to turn in assignments on time or meeting the deadlines. Again, make use of the tutorial
program. You want to be familiar with any limitations you or your computer may have. If your
internet access is frequently interrupted then you will want to have a backup or alternative plan so
that you can make all deadlines.
Drop Course Policy
Students should take responsibility for dropping themselves from the course according to
University policy should this become necessary.
After clicking on to the eCollege page, under Student Support Services there is information on Student
Online Course Drop Procedure, click on indicator for information on how to drop a class.
University Specific Procedures:
Withdrawal from Class:
It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of the rules or policies relating to withdrawal or “X.”
You are encouraged to follow the appropriate procedures of the university as they relate to this
matter. I will be as helpful and understanding where possible, but please be aware that this
professor does not like to give an incomplete as a grade.
ADA Statement:
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides
comprehensive civil rights protection for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this
legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that
provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you have a disability requiring an
accommodation, please contact:
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Office of Student Disability Resources and Services
Texas A&M University-Commerce
Gee Library 132
Phone (903) 886-5150 or (903) 886-5835
Fax (903) 468-8148
Student Conduct:
All students enrolled at the University shall follow the tenets of common decency and acceptable
behavior conducive to a positive learning environment. (See Code of Student Conduct from
Student Guide Handbook).
COURSE OUTLINE / CALENDAR
Week One July 1– July 6, 2013
Chapter 1 – Introduction to Criminological Theory
Initial Presentation due by July 2, 2013, by 11:59pm
Chapter 1 Discussion posted by July 6, 2013, by 11:59pm
Week One Discussion Question (select only one of which to post answer)
1. Criminological theories are systematically developed statements that explain some
consistency or identifiable connection between variables (behavior in our case of
studying crime or criminal behavior). Your task is to discuss as the author has introduced
the differences between structural and social processes theories. Elaborate on theories, which
theories can fit in each category and why. Are there any theories that may fit into both
categories?
2. Discuss, elaborate on and/or interpret the following statement from Chapter One of Akers et
al., Criminological Theories… “Criminological theory has implications not only for official
public policy and programs, but also for what can be done informally in families, peer
groups, neighborhoods, and communities…” (p. 10 of the 6th edition and p. 11 of the 5
th
edition).
Week Two July 7– July 13, 2013
Chapter 5 – Social Learning Theory
Chapter 6 – Social Bonding and Control Theories
Research Article # 1 Exercise (answer due) July 12, 2013, by 11:59pm
Barbara Costello.2000. “Techniques of neutralization and self-esteem: a critical test of
social control and neutralization theory.” Deviant Behavior 21:307-329.
Select only one of the below research article questions to answer, place in appropriate
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dropbox titled Research Article # 1 Exercise:
A. What do you now understand about the relationship between neutralization
and self-esteem as they refer to delinquency, after reading the article?
B. What is the essential thesis of the technique of neutralization theory,
elaborate on any two of the techniques of neutralization.
Chapter 5 or 6 Discussion posted by July 13, 2013, by 11:59pm
Week Two Discussion Question (select only one of which to post answer)
3. There is a great deal of similarity and some differences between Sutherland’s differential
association theory and Akers’ differential reinforcement theory, especially since both are
declared or identified as social learning theories. Discuss the difference and similarities
between these two theories and emphasize the social interaction that each theory points out.
4. After reading Chapter Six discuss why and/or how techniques of neutralization, containment
theory, social bonding, and self-control theories are seen or placed within the social control
paradigm or category. Emphasize the control variable or segment that each theory addresses.
Do not simply describe each different theory, but discuss how each theory plays on or
emphasizes the control aspect.
Week Three July 14 - July 20, 2013
Chapter 8 – Social Disorganization Theory: Social Structure, Communities, and Crime
Chapter 9 - Anomie, and Strain Theories
Research Article # 2 Exercise (answer due) Friday July 19, 2013, 11:59pm
Joanne Kaufman et. al., 2008. “A general strain theory of racial differences in
criminal offending.” The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Criminology
41:421-437.
Select only one of the below research article questions to answer, place in appropriate
dropbox titled Research Article # 2 Exercise:
A. Kaufman and associates had a rather interesting idea, looking at racial differences
in criminal offending, using Agnew’s General Strain Theory (GST). The key to
Agnew’s explanation of racial differences in criminal offending seems to rest with
a motivational process to reduce/remove (or at least deal with) the strain. Explain
how Agnew describes the origin (four characteristics of strain) of this strain then
discuss how criminal offending is to eliminate the strain.
B. What was the reason for a lack of complete explanation of racial differences in
criminal offending as described in Kaufman’s article in reference to the use of social
disorganization or subcultural violence theories? In the process discuss how
Agnew’s GST was to fill that void in the explanation of racial differences in criminal
offending.
Chapter Outline (students selecting one chapter from 3, 4, 10, 11, 12, or 13) due July 20, 2013 by
11:59pm
Chapter 8 or 9 Discussion posted by July 20, 2013, by 11:59pm
Week Three Discussion Question (select only one of which to post answer)
5. Akers and associates in the textbook explained that social disorganization may be seen in two
forms influencing the crime rate or criminality – either as a result of “urban ecology,
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economic conditions… and rapid social change” (p.166 of 6th edition and p. 180 of 5
th
edition); and as a factor undermining informal social controls within the community. In either
sense/view discuss (explain) how useful the social disorganization theory is in explaining the
crime rate and criminality in today’s society. Be succinct in your discussion.
6. Strain theory, regardless of whether its Merton’s anomie or Agnew’s general strain, appears
to contribute much to the explanation of criminal behavior. Take both theories and contrast
their contribution(s) to understanding the commitment of criminal behavior.
Week Four – July 21– July 27, 2013
Chapter 2 – Deterrence and Rational Choice Theories
Chapter 7 – Labeling and Reintegrative Shaming Theory
Student Selected Research Article summary due July 24, 2013, by 11:59pm
Research Article # 3 Exercise (answer due) July 26, 2013, by 11:59pm
Daniel Nagin, 1993. “Enduring individual differences and rational choice theories of crime.”
Law & Society Review27(3):467-496.
Select only one of the below research article questions to answer, place in appropriate
dropbox titled Research Article # 3 Exercise:
A. The authors stated “…we do not believe the two criminological traditions [rational
choice and self-control] examined here should be viewed as competing explanations”
(p.490). After reading the article what have you learned that will allow you to agree
with the authors’ above statement? In your elaboration be specific and reflect having
read the article.
B. This research article called attention to the concept of individual “criminal
propensity.” This concept appears to have a significant relationship to the variables
represented in the theories of rational choice and low self-control. Explain or
describe the meaning of “criminal propensity,” and address its importance in this
research study.
Chapter 2 or 7 Discussion posted by July 27, 2013, by 11:59pm
Week Four Discussion Question (select only one of which to post answer)
7. Based on our textbook authors’ comments in reference to research on deterrence, and other
available sources, discuss how useful is deterrence to stopping or reducing the volume of
crime.
8. Having studied the labeling theory, now discuss how and why some researchers (i.e., Smith
and Paternoster, 1990; p. 146 of 6th edition and p. 161 of 5
th edition) suggest that the impact
of labeling may really represent a “deviance-amplification model” (p. 146 of 6th edition and
p. 161 of 5th edition).
Week Five July 28 – August 4, 2013
Chapter 14 – Integrating Criminological Theories
Research paper due Monday, July 29, 2013, by 11:59pm
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Essay Test available July 31 – August 2, 2013, must be completed by August 2, 2013, by 11:59pm
Chapter 14 Discussion posted by August 3, 2013, by 11:59pm
Week Five Discussion Question (select only one of which to post answer)
9. After digesting the various models of integrating criminological theories and being
introduced to the goal of life-course criminology, your task is to discuss the possible
connections or areas of similar thoughts found between these two ideological presentations.
Do not simply discuss the two separate ideas found or formulated in both campus, but discuss
where the two criminogenic orientations follow parallel ideas.
10. Discuss what you see as the advantages and disadvantages of employing an integrated
explanation of criminal behavior. Be specific in employing ideas presented by the authors,
this will also call for some inference based on your reading.
Objective Test available August 2, 2013, must be completed by August 3, 2013, by 11:59pm
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Attachment A: Points to consider for maximum grade achievement
100 – 90 points 89 – 75 points 74-60 or below points
Very Good Moderate Poor/ Weak
Thesis / Argument
Clearly describes central
issues or thesis
Develops thesis with
supporting arguments
Well argued
Critiques, compares
multiple perspectives
Interesting, original,
thought provoking
General, weak thesis
Straight-forward,
somewhat simple
arguments
Thesis gets lost in paper
Aware of only one
perspective
Thesis or central themes
unclear
Central themes not
explained from the
beginning
Poor arguments, little
critical thinking
Organization
Introduction Clear thesis/ main themes
Organization stated
Topics noted
Thesis unclear
Organization unclear
Body Makes substantiating
arguments in support
of thesis or main theme
Connects and synthesizes
complex ideas
Detailed, with citations
Little organizational
continuity
Disjointed
General, unspecific
Little use of reading
sources
No clear organization
Repetitive
Lacks detail
No Citations
Conclusion
Draws conclusions about
the argument
Briefly summarizes body
A Summary;
no conclusions
Summary digressed from
argument
Conclusion missing
Summary unrelated to
central argument
Evidence
Thorough, Detailed,
Specific
Numerous examples from
reading and lecture
materials
Moderate use of
supporting evidence
and examples
Try to be more detailed
and specific
Repetitive, General,
Simplistic
Incorrect examples, false
data
Sources/ Citations
Thorough, critical
engagement of relevant
readings/sources
Professional Journals and
texts
Numerous citations
Basic, simple use of
reading materials
Few citations
Relies too heavily on
internet or
encyclopedias
Little use of assigned
reading sources or
outside research
No citations
Need Works Cited page
Plagiarism! (automatic F)
Language / Mechanics
Rhetorical Quality
Grammar/ Spelling
Well written, clear,
concise argumentation
Clear paragraphs
Grammatical writing
Correct spelling
No contractions
General, unspecific
writing
Awkward grammar, some
grammatical errors
Some spelling errors
Use of conjunctions
Unclear, awkward,
repetitive language
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Attachment B: Instructions for Research Article Summary Selected by Students
Instructions for writing Research Article Summary Exercise
Naturally, you want to provide the bibliographical information of the research article first. Place
this at the top of the page (center it) and it should contain the following information: Name of author(s)
"Title of Article"
Title of Journal
volume: complete number of pages, year of publication
For Example Volkan Topalli. "When being good is bad: An expansion of neutralization theory."
Criminology 43:797-827, 2005.
Now, proceed to summarize the article:
1. Make sure you describe the focus, purpose, or goal of the article. These should all be the
same. To make this easier to read, students should probably identify these as headings,
such as follows.
Focus, Purpose or Goal of Article
2. If a sample was used in the research then describe the sample and identify how it was
collected or selected. If the article is a theoretical piece then there will be no sample and
if that is the case then simply omit this area.
Sample
3. Describe the finding(s) of the research. What was the author(s) able to establish from the
research should be described, discussed here.
Findings
4. What conclusions did the author(s) draw or write in the article? So make this a conclusion
session which should be different from the findings.
Conclusion
5. In your last paragraph (or more if needed) develop a statement (brief discussion) of how
this article fits into the understanding of the focus of the class, crime profiling. Relate the
article/research to what we have talked about during this semester, crime profiling.
Article's Application
